October 03, 2008

Some say the original is by Mahawa Kouyaté, but I think it's a traditional.

Balla et ses Balladins have a version, but it hasn't been included on the (nevertheless) brilliant collection from Stern's. And that's the only version on the Syliphone label.

A quick search on the web reveals a rap version (using the version by Morydjeli Deen Kouyaté*), a version categorized under Papua New Guinea and a few more.

Here are two more versions: the first is by the Simandou Jazz de Beyla (broadcasted on April 3, 1986 by the RTG), the second is a superb instrumental version by the Horoya Band. It's from a cassette attributed to the 'Horiya Band', which appears to be an attempt by a few of Horoya's musicians to survive in the post-Syliphone era. It's one of my favorite non-Syliphone cassettes from Guinea, - so I have included the whole cassette.

About me

After more than 23 years of making radio programmes I am seeking new ways to share my passion for African and Latin music. My intentions are 100% non-commercial.
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